The 11th annual Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge crowned Indiana-based Gripp as the 2025 winner during the American Farm Bureau Convention in San Antonio. This competition, a partnership between the American Farm Bureau Federation and Farm Credit, showcases business innovations that address pressing challenges in agriculture.
Gripp, led by Indiana Farm Bureau member Tracey Wiedmeyer, took home the grand prize of $100,000. The company’s operator-centric platform integrates asset tracking with communication tools, streamlining farm management and connectivity.
Labby, a New York-based startup led by Julia Somerdin, was named runner-up and received $25,000. Labby develops advanced, real-time milk testing solutions powered by AI and mobile spectroscopy, aiming to revolutionize the dairy industry.
“We’ve doubled the prize and doubled the impact for this year’s Ag Innovation Challenge,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “The entrepreneurs honored today are helping shape the future of agriculture by finding innovative solutions to the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers.”
Two other finalists, Halio of Utah and RhizeBio of North Carolina, each received $10,000. These teams were among 10 semi-finalists who participated in a virtual pitch round judged by industry leaders.
Farm Bureau also celebrated the winners of its Young Farmers & Ranchers awards, which recognize excellence in farming, leadership, and advocacy.
- First place: Kade and Morgan Hodges, Texas, who received a $35,000 Ford vehicle credit and paid registration to the Farm Bureau FUSION Conference
- Second place: Dustin and Katie Wiese, Minnesota, who earned a $25,000 Case IH equipment credit
- Third place: Tracy Robinson, Tennessee, awarded $2,500 cash and Stanley Black & Decker merchandise
- Fourth place: Alan and Rachel Eck, Maryland, who received a Case IH-branded Solo Stove
The Achievement Award honors farmers excelling in their operations and leadership within Farm Bureau and their communities.
Discussion meet winners
- First place: Abby Campbell, Ohio
- Second place: Cain Thurmond, Georgia
- Third place: Hayden Ballard, Utah
- Fourth place: John Norwood, North Carolina
This contest simulates a collaborative discussion on key agricultural topics, evaluating participants on idea exchange and communication skills.
Excellence in Agriculture Award winners
- First place: Marshal and Taylor Sewell, Florida
- Second place: Morgan Slaven, Virginia
- Third place: Paige Nelson, Idaho
- ourth place: Jynel Gularte, California
This award recognizes individuals who actively contribute to agriculture through leadership and advocacy while earning most of their income outside of farming.
